Ollie Sleightholme: Northampton Saints wing says ‘injuries taught me about myself’

A rejuvenated Sleightholme credited his try-scoring form this term to his team-mates and the feel-good factor at the Cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens.

“I grew up coming here every other week,” he said.

“It’s a special place. When it’s rocking there is no place like it. The atmosphere is electric, the crowd make you feel 10 feet tall.

“We are all close mates, we came through the academy, which makes it all the more special.

“I remember my debut here and it was a childhood dream come true. The motivation is to be better every day. I want to push my limits.”

But while he is loving life with Saints, Sleightholme said his family’s support has been equally vital through the tougher times.

He added: “Throughout, my dad, my mum and Lucy, my partner, have been absolute rocks and help with the bigger picture. You realise there are other things to life.”

Sleightholme is following in the footsteps of his father, Jon, who played for Northampton, Bath and England during the 1990s.

“I let him try lots of sports and find his own way – he was the one who chose rugby,” said the 51-year-old, who also played on the wing.

“The speed was there from early on. The determination too. And he’s like me, he’s a bad loser, and I think that’s not a bad trait. We are both very competitive.”